Acanthiza lineata
The Striated Thornbill (Acanthiza lineata) is a delightful and diminutive passerine, a true jewel of the Australian eucalypt forests. Measuring a mere 9-11 cm in length and weighing 6-8 grams, its small stature belies its energetic nature. Distinctive field marks include its olive-brown upperparts, pale yellowish-white underparts, and crucially, the heavy, fine streaking of black and white across its crown, nape, and breast, giving it its common name. Its bright reddish-orange eyes are also a...
This species primarily inhabits eucalypt forests and woodlands, preferring the upper to mid-canopy strata. It can be found from sea level up to higher elevations in mountainous regions.
Its diet consists almost entirely of small insects, insect larvae, and spiders, gleaned primarily from the leaves and bark of eucalypt trees.
The Striated Thornbill is a highly active, diurnal species, constantly on the move through the foliage. It primarily forages by gleaning insects and spiders from leaves and bark, often hovering or hanging upside down with remarkable agility, particularly in the outer canopy. Pairs maintain territ...
The Striated Thornbill is endemic to eastern and southeastern Australia, exhibiting a broad and generally continuous distribution. Its range extends from southeastern Queensland, south through New South Wales and Victoria, and west into southeastern South Australia, including the Mount Lofty Rang...
Least Concern
- The Striated Thornbill is one of Australia's smallest birds, often weighing less than a quarter of an average house sparrow. - Its common name refers to the distinctive fine streaking across its head and breast, a key identification feature. - These tiny birds are remarkably acrobatic, frequent...